A method of transmitting a broadcast signal according to an embodiment of the present invention includes encoding broadcast service data based on a delivery protocol, generating service layer signaling (SLS) information for the discovery and acquisition of the broadcast service data, generating service list information for the building of a service list and the discovery of the SLS information, and generating a signal frame comprising physical layer signaling information and at least one physical layer pipe (PLP) by physical-layer processing the service list information, the SLS information and the broadcast service data.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of transmitting a broadcast signal, the method comprising: link layer processing a plurality of Internet protocol (IP) packets to generate a plurality of link layer packets, the IP packets including service data of a broadcast service, service list information, and service layer signaling (SLS) information used to obtain the service data, wherein the service data and the SLS information are carried in upper layer packets delivered by using a delivery protocol, the delivery protocol including at least one of a real-time object delivery over unidirectional transport (ROUTE) protocol or a Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) media transport (MMT) protocol, the service list information is used to build a list of the broadcast service and discover the SLS information, the link layer processing comprising: generating one or more link layer packets of a first group including one or more IP packets, a header of a link layer packet of the first group including type information representing a type of an IP packet in the link layer packet, and generating one or more link layer packets of a second group including a link layer mapping table providing mapping information between IP packets and a physical layer pipe (PLP), a header of a link layer packet of the second group including type information representing the link layer packet carrying the link layer mapping table; and physical layer processing the plurality of the link layer packets to generate at least one signal frame comprising physical layer signaling information and at least one PLP.
This invention relates to a method for transmitting broadcast signals, specifically addressing the efficient delivery of Internet Protocol (IP) packets in broadcast systems. The method processes IP packets containing service data, service list information, and service layer signaling (SLS) information to generate link layer packets. The service data and SLS information are encapsulated in upper layer packets using delivery protocols such as ROUTE (Real-Time Object Delivery over Unidirectional Transport) or MPEG Media Transport (MMT). The service list information helps build a list of available broadcast services and aids in discovering the SLS information, which is essential for accessing the service data. The link layer processing involves creating two groups of link layer packets. The first group contains IP packets, with each packet's header including type information indicating the type of IP packet it carries. The second group includes a link layer mapping table that provides mapping information between IP packets and physical layer pipes (PLPs), with headers indicating that the packet carries this mapping table. After processing, the link layer packets are further processed at the physical layer to generate signal frames, which include physical layer signaling information and at least one PLP. This method ensures efficient transmission and proper organization of broadcast data, facilitating seamless service discovery and access for end users.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the physical layer signaling information comprises indication information indicating whether the at least one PLP comprises the service list information.
This invention relates to digital broadcasting systems, specifically to methods for efficiently transmitting service list information in physical layer pipes (PLPs) within a broadcast signal. The problem addressed is the need to reduce overhead while ensuring receivers can quickly identify available services without excessive signaling. The method involves transmitting physical layer signaling information that includes an indication of whether a PLP contains service list information. This allows receivers to determine, without parsing the entire PLP, whether it includes a list of available services. The service list information itself may include identifiers for services carried in the PLP, such as service IDs or names, and may also include metadata like service type or provider information. The signaling information is structured to minimize overhead by using a compact indication flag rather than transmitting full service details redundantly. The method may also involve transmitting additional physical layer signaling information that specifies the location or format of the service list within the PLP, enabling receivers to efficiently locate and decode the service list. This approach reduces the need for receivers to scan multiple PLPs or wait for higher-layer signaling, improving channel acquisition time and power efficiency, particularly in mobile or battery-powered devices. The invention is applicable to broadcast standards like DVB-T2 or ATSC 3.0, where efficient signaling is critical for supporting multiple services in a single transmission.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein an IP packet carrying the service list information has a predetermined dedicated IP address.
A system and method for transmitting service list information in a network involves encoding the service list into an IP packet for delivery to a receiving device. The service list includes details about available services, such as multimedia content or network applications, and is structured in a standardized format to ensure compatibility across different devices. The IP packet carrying this service list information is assigned a predetermined dedicated IP address, which distinguishes it from other network traffic and ensures proper routing and processing. This dedicated address allows the receiving device to easily identify and extract the service list without additional parsing or filtering. The method may also include error detection and correction mechanisms to ensure the integrity of the transmitted data. The system is particularly useful in environments where multiple services are offered over a network, such as in multimedia streaming or IoT applications, where efficient and reliable service discovery is essential. The use of a dedicated IP address simplifies the implementation of service discovery protocols and reduces the overhead associated with managing service list information in a network.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the service list information is transmitted in a shorter period than the SLS information and at a higher frequency than the SLS information.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the efficiency of service discovery in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the delay and inefficiency in broadcasting service list information (SLS) to user devices, which can lead to outdated or incomplete service availability data. The invention provides a method for transmitting service list information more frequently and in shorter intervals than traditional SLS broadcasts. This ensures user devices receive up-to-date service availability data without excessive latency. The method involves generating service list information, which includes details about available services in the network, and transmitting this information at a higher frequency and in shorter bursts compared to conventional SLS transmissions. By doing so, the system reduces the time devices spend waiting for service updates, improving overall network responsiveness and user experience. The method may also include steps for generating the service list information, such as collecting data from network nodes or service providers, and formatting the information for efficient transmission. The shorter transmission intervals and higher frequency ensure that even mobile devices moving between cells receive timely updates, maintaining seamless service continuity. This approach optimizes network resources by balancing the need for frequent updates with the overhead of excessive broadcasts. The result is a more dynamic and reliable service discovery mechanism in wireless networks.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the service list information comprises bootstrap information for the SLS information for the broadcast service.
A system and method for managing service discovery in a broadcast network environment involves providing service list information to a receiver device. The service list information includes bootstrap data that enables the receiver to access and retrieve detailed service list (SLS) information for available broadcast services. This bootstrap information may include metadata, identifiers, or configuration parameters necessary for the receiver to locate and decode the SLS data, which contains comprehensive details about the broadcast services, such as service names, descriptions, and access parameters. The method ensures efficient service discovery by reducing the overhead of transmitting full service details in the initial broadcast, instead relying on a lightweight bootstrap mechanism to guide the receiver to the complete SLS information. This approach optimizes bandwidth usage and improves the speed of service acquisition for the receiver device. The system may be implemented in digital broadcast networks, such as DVB, ATSC, or other IP-based broadcast systems, where service discovery is critical for user access to multimedia content. The bootstrap information may be transmitted via a dedicated channel, embedded within a transport stream, or delivered through a separate signaling mechanism, depending on the network architecture. The receiver device processes the bootstrap data to construct a request for the full SLS information, which is then used to present available services to the user or to automatically tune to a desired service. This method enhances the efficiency and reliability of service discovery in broadcast networks.
6. The method of claim 5 , wherein: when the delivery protocol is the ROUTE protocol, the bootstrap information includes a source IP address, a destination IP address and a destination port of a transport session carrying the SLS information.
Technical Summary: This invention relates to network communication protocols, specifically methods for handling bootstrap information in routing protocols. The problem addressed is the efficient and accurate transmission of bootstrap information, particularly in systems using the Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL) or similar routing protocols. Bootstrap information is critical for initializing and maintaining network communication sessions, but existing methods may lack specificity or efficiency in certain scenarios. The invention describes a method for including detailed transport session information in bootstrap information when using the ROUTE protocol. Specifically, the bootstrap information includes a source IP address, a destination IP address, and a destination port of a transport session carrying Service Location Service (SLS) information. This ensures that the bootstrap process can accurately identify and establish the necessary transport session for SLS communication. The method enhances the reliability and efficiency of network initialization by providing precise transport layer details, which are essential for proper session establishment and data exchange in constrained network environments. This approach is particularly useful in low-power and lossy networks where resource efficiency and accurate session management are critical.
7. The method of claim 5 , wherein the service list information further comprises at least one of service identifier (ID) information for identifying the broadcast service, service category information for indicating a category of the broadcast service or short service name information for indicating a short service name of the broadcast service or service protection information for indicating whether one or more components needed for meaningful presentation of the broadcast service are protected.
This invention relates to broadcast service delivery systems, specifically improving the handling of service list information in broadcast networks. The problem addressed is the lack of comprehensive metadata in broadcast service listings, which makes it difficult for receivers to efficiently identify, categorize, and process broadcast services, especially when some service components are protected. The method enhances service list information by including additional metadata fields. These fields may contain a service identifier (ID) to uniquely identify the broadcast service, service category information to classify the service (e.g., news, sports, entertainment), and a short service name for quick recognition. Additionally, the service list may include protection information indicating whether one or more components required for meaningful presentation of the broadcast service are protected, such as encrypted or access-controlled content. This allows receivers to determine upfront whether they can fully access the service without additional processing or user intervention. By providing this expanded metadata, the invention enables more efficient service discovery, filtering, and access control in broadcast systems, improving user experience and system interoperability. The method is particularly useful in digital broadcast environments where multiple services are transmitted simultaneously, and receivers need to quickly assess service availability and accessibility.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the category of the broadcast service includes at least one of linear audio/video (A/V) service, linear audio only service, app-based service or electronic service guide (ESG) service.
This invention relates to categorizing broadcast services in a media distribution system. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently classify and manage different types of broadcast services to improve user experience and system operation. The invention provides a method for categorizing broadcast services into distinct types, including linear audio/video (A/V) services, linear audio-only services, app-based services, and electronic service guide (ESG) services. Linear A/V services involve real-time streaming of video and audio content, such as live TV channels. Linear audio-only services provide real-time audio content without video, like radio stations. App-based services are delivered through dedicated applications, offering on-demand or interactive content. ESG services provide metadata and scheduling information about available broadcast services. The categorization allows for better resource allocation, content discovery, and personalized recommendations. The method ensures that each service type is properly identified and managed within the system, enhancing efficiency and user accessibility. This approach supports seamless integration of diverse broadcast services into a unified platform, improving both technical performance and user engagement.
9. An apparatus for transmitting a broadcast signal, the apparatus comprising: a link layer processor configured to link layer process a plurality of Internet protocol (IP) packets to generate a plurality of link layer packets, the IP packets including service data of a broadcast service, service list information, and service layer signaling (SLS) information used to obtain the service data, wherein the service data and the SLS information are carried in upper layer packets delivered by using a delivery protocol, the delivery protocol including at least one of a real-time object delivery over unidirectional transport (ROUTE) protocol or a Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) media transport (MMT) protocol, the service list information is used to build a list of the broadcast service and discover the SLS information, the link layer processor is further configured to: generate one or more link layer packets of a first group including one or more IP packets, a header of a link layer packet of the first group including type information representing a type of an IP packet in the link layer packet, and generate one or more link layer packets of a second group including a link layer mapping table providing mapping information between IP packets and a physical layer pipe (PLP), a header of a link layer packet of the second group including type information representing the link layer packet carrying the link layer mapping table; and a physical layer processor configured to physical layer process the plurality of the link layer packets to generate at least one signal frame comprising physical layer signaling information and at least one PLP.
This invention relates to a broadcast signal transmission apparatus designed to efficiently process and transmit Internet Protocol (IP) packets for broadcast services. The apparatus addresses the challenge of managing and delivering diverse broadcast service data, service list information, and service layer signaling (SLS) information over unidirectional transport protocols like ROUTE or MPEG-MMT. The link layer processor organizes IP packets into two distinct groups of link layer packets. The first group contains service data and SLS information, with packet headers indicating the type of IP packet carried (e.g., service data or signaling). The second group includes a link layer mapping table that maps IP packets to physical layer pipes (PLPs), with headers identifying these packets as carrying the mapping table. The physical layer processor then processes these link layer packets into signal frames, incorporating physical layer signaling and PLPs for transmission. This system ensures efficient delivery and discovery of broadcast services by structuring data and signaling in a way that simplifies receiver processing and service acquisition.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the physical layer signaling information comprises indication information indicating whether the at least one PLP comprises the service list information.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses for transmitting and receiving physical layer pipe (PLP) signaling information in broadcast or multicast networks. The problem addressed is the efficient transmission of service list information within PLP signaling to enable receivers to quickly identify available services without requiring extensive parsing of broadcast data. The apparatus includes a transmitter configured to generate and transmit physical layer signaling information that includes indication information. This indication explicitly signals whether the PLP contains service list information, allowing receivers to determine the presence of such data without additional processing. The signaling information may also include identifiers for the PLP and associated service components, along with metadata such as modulation and coding schemes. The receiver is configured to parse the physical layer signaling to detect the indication and, if present, extract the service list information for service discovery and selection. This approach improves efficiency by reducing the need for receivers to analyze entire PLP payloads to locate service data, particularly in systems like DVB-T2 or 5G broadcast where multiple services may be multiplexed into a single transmission. The indication mechanism allows for faster service acquisition and better resource management in dynamic broadcast environments.
11. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein an IP packet carrying the service list information has a predetermined dedicated IP address.
The invention relates to a system for transmitting service list information in a network, addressing the challenge of efficiently and reliably delivering service-related data to devices. The apparatus includes a transmitter configured to send a service list containing available services, and a receiver to process this information. The service list is transmitted in an IP packet, which is assigned a predetermined dedicated IP address to ensure proper routing and identification. This dedicated address distinguishes the service list packets from other network traffic, improving data handling and reducing errors. The apparatus may also include a processor to generate or modify the service list based on network conditions or user preferences. The system ensures that devices can accurately receive and interpret service availability, enhancing network performance and user experience. The use of a dedicated IP address for service list packets simplifies network management and ensures compatibility with existing infrastructure.
12. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the service list information is transmitted in a shorter period than the SLS information and at a higher frequency than the SLS information.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the efficiency of service discovery in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the delay and inefficiency in broadcasting service list information (SLS) to user devices, which can lead to outdated or incomplete service availability data. The apparatus includes a base station configured to transmit service list information to user devices. The service list information is sent more frequently and in shorter bursts compared to traditional SLS transmissions. This ensures that user devices receive up-to-date service availability data without excessive overhead. The apparatus also includes a controller that manages the transmission timing and frequency of the service list information, optimizing network resources while maintaining reliable service discovery. The service list information is structured to be compact, allowing for rapid transmission and processing by user devices. The higher frequency of updates reduces latency in service discovery, improving user experience. The apparatus may also include mechanisms to prioritize critical service information, ensuring that essential services are communicated promptly. This approach enhances network efficiency by reducing unnecessary transmissions while ensuring timely service availability updates.
Cooperative Patent Classification codes for this invention. Click any code to explore related patents in that topic.
March 18, 2016
December 3, 2019
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.